{ Adopted: 11 Nov 1962 / Status: 11 Nov 1962 }
[Preamble]
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful,
We
Amir of the State of Kuwait,
desiring to use the means of democratic rule for our dear
Country; and,
having faith in the role of this Country in furthering Arab
nationalism and the promotion of world peace and human
civilisation; and,
striving towards a better future in which the Country enjoys
greater prosperity and higher international standing, and in
which also the citizens are provided with more political
freedom, equality, and social justice, a future which upholds the
traditions inherent in the Arab nation by enhancing the dignity
of the individual, safeguarding public interest, and applying
consultative rule yet maintaining the unity and stability of the
Country; and, I
having considered Law Number I of 1962 concerning the
system of Goverument during the period of transition; and,
upon the resolution of the Constituent Assembly;
do hereby approve this Constitution and promulgate it.
Article 1 [Sovereignty, Territorial Integrity]
Kuwait is an Arab State, independent and fully sovereign.
Neither its sovereignty nor any part of its territory may be
relinquished. The people of Kuwait is a part of the Arab
Nation.
Article 2 [State Religion]
The religion of the State is Islem, and the Islamic Sharia shall
be a main source of legislation.
Article 3 [Official Language]
The official language of the State is Arabic.
Article 4 [Monarchy]
(1) Kuwait is a hereditary Amirate, the succession to which
shall be in the descendants of the late Mubarak al-Sabah.
(2) The Heir Apparent shall be designated within one year, at
the latest, from the date of accession of the Amir.
(3) His designation shall be effected by an Amiri Order upon
the nomination of the Amir and the approval of the National
Assembly which shall be signified by a majarity vote of its
members in a special sitting.
(4) In case no designation is achieved in accordance with the
foregoing procedure, the Amir shall nominate at least three of
the descendants of the late Mubarak al-Sabah of whom the
National Assembly shall pledge allegiance to one as Heir
Apparent.
(5) The Heir Apparent shall have attained his majority, be of
sound mind, and a legitimate son of Muslim parents.
(6) A special law promulgated within one year from the date of
coming into force of this Constitution shall lay down the other
rules of succession in the Amirate. The said law shall be of a
constitutional nature and therefore shall be capable of
amendment only by the procedure prescribed for amendment of
the Constitution.
Article 5 [State Symbols]
The flag, emblem, badges, decorations, and the National
Anthem of the State shall be specified by law.
Article 6 [Democracy]
The System of Government in Kuwait shall be democratic,
under which sovereignty resides in the people, the source of all
powers. Sovereiguty shall be exercised in the manner specified
in this Constitution.
Article 7 [State Goals]
Justice, Liberty, and Equality are the pillars of society;
co-operation and mutual help are the firmest bonds between
citizens.
Article 8 [Guardian State]
The State safeguards the pillars of Society and ensures security,
tranquility, and equal opportunities for citizens.
Article 9 [Family]
The family is the corner-stone of Society. It is founded on
religion, morality, and patriotism. Law shall preserve the
integrity of the family, strengthen its ties, and protect under its
support motherhood and childhood.
Article 10 [Youth Protection]
The State cares for the young and protects them from
exploitation and from moral, physical, and spiritual neglect.
Article 11 [Old Age Protection]
The State ensures aid for citizens in old age, sickness, or
inability to work. It also provides them with services of social
security, social aid, and medical care.
Article 12 [Arab Heritage]
The State safeguards the heritage of Islam and of the Arabs and
contributes to the furtherance of human civilisation.
Article 13 [Education]
Education is a fundamental requisite for the progress of society,
assured and promoted by the State.
Article 14 [Science, Arts]
The State shall promote science, letters, and the arts and
encourage scientific research therein.
Article 15 [Health Care]
The State cares for public health and for means of prevention
and treatment of diseases and epidemics.
Article 16 [Property Rights]
Property, capital, and work are fundamental constituents of the
social structure of the State and of the national wealth. All of
them are individual rights with a social function as regulated by
law.
Article 17 [Public Property]
Public property is inviolable and its protection is the duty of
every citizen.
Article 18 [Private Property, Inheritance]
(1) Private property is inviolable
(2) Inheritance is a right governed by the Islamic Sharia.
Article 19 [Confiscation]
General confiscation of the property of any person shall be
prohibited. Confiscation of particular property as a penalty
may not be inflicted except by court judgment in the
circumstances specified by law.
Article 20 [National Economy]
The national economy shall be basod on social justice. It is
founded on fair co-operation between public and private
activities. Its aim shall be economic development, increase of
productivity, improvement of the standard of living, and
achievement of prosperity for citizens, all within the limits of
the law.
Article 21 [Natural Resources]
Natural resources and all revenues therefrom are the property
of the State. It shall ensure their preservation and proper
exploitation, due regard being given to the requirements of
State security and the national economy.
Article 22 [Employment, Tenements]
Relations between employers and employees and between
landlords and tenants shall be regulated by law on economic
principles, due regard being given to the rules of social justice.
Article 23 [Banking]
The State shall encourage both co-operative activities and
savings, and supervise the system of credit.
Article 24 [Taxation]
Social justice shall be the basis of taxes and public imposts.
Article 25 [State Burdens]
The State shall ensure the solidarity of society in shouldering
burdens resulting from public disasters and calamities, and
provide compensation for war damages or injuries received by
any person as a result of the discharge of his military duties.
Article 26 [Public Office]
(1) Public office is a national service entrusted to those who
hold it. Public officials, in the exercise of their duties, shall
aim at the public interest.
(2) Aliens may not hold public offices except in the cases
specified by law.
Article 27 [Nationality]
Kuwaiti nationality is defined by law. No deprivation or
withdrawal of nationality may be effected except within the
limits prescribed by law.
Article 28 [Deportation, Return]
No Kuwaiti may be deported from Kuwait or prevented from
returning thereto.
Article 29 [Equality, Human Dignity, Personal Liberty]
(1) All people are equal
(2) Personal liberty is guaranteed.
Article 31 [Arrest, Move, No Torture]
(1) No person shall be arrested, detained, searched, or
compelled to reside in a specified place, nor shall the residence
of any person or his liberty to choose his place of residence or
his liberty of movement be restricted, except in accordance with
the provisions of the law.
(2) No person shall be subjected to torture or to degrading
treatment.
Article 32 [Nulla Poena Sine Lege, Personal Penalty]
(1) No crime and no penalty may be established except by
virtue of law, and no penalty may be imposed except for
offences committed after the relevant law has come into force.
(2) Penalty is personal.
Article 34 [Presumption of Innocence, Right to Trial]
(1) An accused person is presumed innocent until proved guilty
in a legal trial at which the necessary guarantees for the
exercise of the right of defence are secured.
(2) The infliction of physical or moral injury on an accused
person is prohibited.
Article 35 [Freedom of Religion and Belief]
Freedom of belief
Article 36 [Freedom of Opinion and Expression]
Freedom of opinion and of scientific research is guaranteed.
Every person has the right to express
Article 37 [Freedom of the Press]
Freedom of the press, printing, and publishing is guaranteed in
accordance with the conditions and manner specified by law.
Article 38 [Home]
Places of residence shall be inviolable. They may not be
entered without the permission of their occupants except in the
circumstances and manner specified by law.
Article 39 [Freedom and Secrecy of Communication]
Freedom of communication by post, telegraph, and telephone
and the secrecy thereof is guaranteed; accordingly, censorship
of communications and disclosure of their contents are not
permitted except in the circumstances and manner specified by
law.
Article 40 [Compulsory and Free Education]
(1) Education is a right for Kuwaitis, guaranteed by the State in
accordance with law and within the limits of public policy and
morals. Edueation in its preliminary stages is compulsory and
free in accordance with the law.
(2) The law lays down the necessary plan to eliminate illiteracy.
(3) The State devotes particular care to the physical, moral, and
mental development of the youth.
Article 41 [Right and Duty to Work]
(1) Every Kuwaiti has the right to work
(2) Work is a duty
Article 42 [No Forced Labor]
There is no forced labor
Article 43 [Association]
Freedom to form associations
Article 44 [Assembly]
(1) Individuals have the right of private assembly
(2) Public meetings, demonstrations
Article 45 [Petition]
Every individual has the right to address the public authorities
in writing over his siguature. Only duly constituted
organizations and bodies corporate have the right to address the
authorities collectively.
Article 46 [Asylum]
Extradition of political refugees is prohibited.
Article 47 [National Defence, Military Service]
National defence is a sacred daty, and military service is an
honor for citizens which shall be regulated by law.
Article 48 [Taxation, Minimum Standard of Living]
Payment of taxes and public imposts is a duty in accordance
with the law which regulates exemption of small incomes from
taxes in such a way as to maintain the minimum standard of
living.
Article 49 [Public Order, Public Morals]
Observance of public order and respect for public morals are a
duty incumbent upon all inhabitants of Kuwait.
Article 50 [Separation and Constitutionality of Powers]
The system of Government is based on the principle of
separation of powers functioning in co-operation with each
other in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.
None of these powers may relinquish all or part of its
competence specified in this Constitution.
Article 51 [Legislative Power]
The legislative power is vested in the Amir and the National
Assembly in accordance with the Constitution.
Article 52 [Executive Power]
The executive power is vested in the Amir, the Cabinet, and the
Ministers, in the manner specified by the Constitution.
Article 53 [Judicial Power]
The judicial power is vested in the Courts, which exercise it in
the name of the Amir within the limits of the Constitution.
Article 54 [Head of State, Immunity, Inviolability]
The Amir is the Head of the State
Article 55 [Government]
The Amir exercises his powers through his Ministers.
Article 56 [Prime Minister]
(1) The Amir, after the traditional consultations, appoints the
Prime Minister
(2) Ministers are appointed from amongst the members of the
National Assembly and from others.
(3) The number of Ministers in all shall not exceed one-third of
the number of the members of the National Assembly.
Article 57 [New Government]
The Cabinet is re-constituted in the manner specified in the
preceding Article at the beginning of every legislative term of
the National Assembly.
Article 58 [Responsibility]
The Prime Minister and the Ministers are collectively
responsible to the Amir for the general policy of the State.
Every Minister also is individually responsible to the Amir for
the affairs of his ministry.
Article 59 [Powers of the Amir Specified by Law]
The Law referred to in Article 4 specifies the conditions under
which the Amir exercises his constitutional powers.
Article 60 [Oath of the Amir's Office]
Before assuming his powers, the Amir takes the following oath
at a special sitting of the National Assembly:
"I swear by Almighty God to respect the Constitution and the
laws of the State, to defend the liberties, interests, and
properties of the people, and to safeguard the independence and
territorial integrity of the Country."
Article 61 [Deputy Amir]
In the event of his absence outside the Country and the inability
of the Heir Apparent to act as Deputy for him, the Amir shall
appoint, by an Amiri Order, a Deputy who shall exercise his
powers during his absence. The said Amiri Order may include
a specified arrangement for the exercise of the said powers on
behalf of the Amir, or a limitation of their scope.
Article 62 [Qualification of Deputy Amir]
The Deputy Amir has to satesfy the qualifications laid down in
Artide 82. If he is a Minister or a member of the National
Assembly, he may not take part in the ministerial functions or
in the work of the Assembly during the period he is acting as
Deputy for the Amir.
Article 63 [Oath of the Deputy Amir's Office]
(1) Before assuming his powers the Deputy Amir, at a spacial
sitting of the National Assembly, takes the oath mentioned in
Articie 60 with the following phrase added thereto:
" and be loyal to the Amir."
(2) In case the National Assembly is not in session, the Oath
shall be taken before the Amir.
Article 64 [Incompatibilities of the Deputy Amir]
The provisions of Article 131 apply to the Deputy Amir.
Article 65 [Promulgation of Laws, Initiative of the Amir]
(1) The Amir has the right to initiate, sanction, and promulgate
laws. Promulgation of laws takes place within thirty days from
the date of their submission by the National Assembly to the
Amir. This period is reduced to seven days in case of urgency.
Such urgency is decided upon by a majority vote of the
members constituting the National Assembly.
(2) Official holidays are not counted in computing the
promulgation.
(3) If the period of promulgation expires without the Head of
State demanding reconsideration, the bill is considered as
having been sanctioned and is promulgated.
Article 66 [Bills]
Reference of a bill for reconsideration is by a decree stating the
grounds therefore. If the National Assembly confirms the bill
by a two-thirds majority vote of its members, the Amir
sanctions and promulgates the bill within thirty days from its
submission to him. If the bill does not receive the said
majarity, it may not be reconsidered during the same session.
If the National Assembly, in another session, considers the
same bill by a majority vote of its members, the Amir sanctions
and promulgates the bill as law within thirty days from its
submission to him.
Article 67 [Chief-of-Command]
The Amir is the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forees.
He appoints and dismisses officers in accordance with the law.
Article 68 [War]
The Amir declares defensive war by decree. Offensive war is
prohibited.
Article 69 [Martial Law]
(1) The Amir proclaims Martial Law in the cases of necessity
determined by law and in accordance with the procedure
specified therein. The proclamation of Martial Law shall be by
decree. Such decree is referred to the National Assembly
within the fifteen days following its issue, for a decision on the
future of Martial Law. If the proclamation takes place during
the period the National Assembly is dissolved, it is be referred
to the new Assembly at its first sitting.
(2) Martial Law may not continue unless a decision to that
effect is made by a majority vote of the members constituting
the Assembly.
(3) In all cases, the matter is referred to the National Assembly
in accordance with the foregoing procedure, every three
months.
Article 70 [Treaties]
(1) The Amir conclades treaties by decree and transmits them
immediately to the National Assembly with the appropriate
statement. A treaty has the force of law after it is signed,
ratified, and publishod in the Official Gazette.
(2) However, treaties of peace and alliance; treaties concerning
the territory of the State, its natural resources or sovereign
rights, or public or private rights of citizens; treaties of
commerce, navigation, and residence; and treaties entailing
additional expenditure not provided for in the badget, or
involving amendment of the laws of Kuwait; shall come into
force only when made by a law.
(3) In no case may treaties include secret provisions
contradicting those declared.
Article 71 [Emergency Decrees]
(1) Should necessity arise for urgent measures to be taken while
the National Assembly is not in session or is dissolved, the
Amir may issue decrees in respect thereof which have the force
of law, provided that they are not contrary to the Constitution
or to the appropriations included in the budget law.
(2) Such decrees are referred to the National Assembly within
the fifteen days following their issue if the Assembly is in
session. If it is dissolved or its legislative term has expired,
such decrees are referred to tbe next Assembly at its first
sitting. If they are not thus referred, they retrospectively cease
to have the force of law, without the necessity of any decision
to that effect. If they are referred and the Assembly does not
confirm them, they retrospectively cease to have the force of
law, unless the Assembly approves their validity for the
preceding period or settles in some other way the effects arising
therefrom.
Article 72 [Execution of Laws]
The Amir issues, by decree, the regulations necessary for the
execution of laws without amending or suspending such laws or
making any exemption from their execution. A law may
prescribe a less formal instrument than a decree for the issue of
the regulations necessary for its execution.
Article 73 [Regulations]
The Amir issues, by decree, regulations for public order and
health, and regulations necessary for the organization of public
services and administration, not conflicting with any law.
Article 74 [Diplomacy]
(1) The Amir appoints and dismisses civil and military officials
and dipiomatic representatives to foreign conntries in
accordance with the law.
(2) He also accepts credentials of the representatives of foreign
countries.
Article 75 [Pardon, Amnesty]
(1) The Amir may, by deeree, grant a pardon or commute a
sentence.
(2) However, general amnesty shall not be granted except by a
law and then only in respect of offences committed prior to the
proposal of the amnesty.
Article 76 [Orders of Honor]
The Amir confers Orders of Honor in accordance with the law.
Article 77 [Minting Coins]
Coins are minted in the name of the Amir in accordance with
the law.
Article 78 [Remuneration of the Amir]
Upon the accession of the Head of State, his annual emoluments
are fixed by a law for the duration of his reign.
Article 79 [Exclusive Legislation]
No law may be promulgated unless it has been passed by the
National Assembly
Article 80 [Election, Ministerial Members]
(1) The National Assembly is composed of fifty members
elected directly by universal suffrage and secret ballot in
accordance with the provisions prescribed by the electoral law.
(2) Ministers who are not elected members of the National
Assembly are considered ex-officio members thereof.
Article 81 [Constituencies]
Electoral constituencies are determined by law.
Article 82 [Qualifications]
A member of the National Assembly shall:
(a) be a Kuwaiti by origin in accordance with law;
(b) be qualified as an elector in acoordance with the electoral
law;
(c) be not less than thirty calendar years of age on the day of
election;
(d) be able to read and write Arabic well.
Article 83 [Term, Re-election]
(1) The term of the National Assembly is four calendar years
commencing with the day of its first sitting. Elections for the
new Assembly take place within the sixty days preceding the
expiry of the said term, due regard being given to the
provisions of Article 107.
(2) Members whose term of office expires may be re-elected.
(3) The term of the Assembly may not be extended except for
necessity in time of war and by a law.
Article 84 [Vacancy]
(1) If, for any reason, a seat in the National Assembly becomes
vacent before the end of the term, the vacancy is filled by
election within two months from the date on which the
Assembly declares the vacency. The mandate of the new
member lasts until the end of that of his predecessor.
(2) If the vacency occurs within six months prior to the expiry
of the legislative term of the Assembly, no successor is elected.
Article 85 [Annual Ordinary Session]
The National Assembly has an annual session of not less than
eight months. The said session may not be prorogued before
the budget is approved.
Article 86 [Start of Ordinary Session]
The Assembly starts its ordinary session during the month of
October of every year upon a convocation by the Amir. If the
decree of convocation is not issued before the first of the said
month, the time for the meeting is deemed to be 9 a.m. on the
third Saturday of that month. If such day happens to be an
official holiday, the Assembly meets on the morning of the first
day thereafter.
Article 87 [First Session]
(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of the preceding two
Articles, the Amir summons the National Assembly to hold its
first meeting within two weeks of the end of the general
election. If the decree of convocation is not issued within the
said period, the Assembly is deemed to have been convoked for
the morning of the day following these two weeks, due regard
being given to the relevant provision of the preceding Article.
(2) If the date of the meeting of the Assembly falls after the annual date mentioned in Article 86, the term of the session specified in Article 85 is reduced by the difference between the said two dates.
Article 88 [Extraordinary Sessions]
(1) The National Assembly is called by decree to an
extraordinary session if the Amir deems it necessary, or upon
the demand of the majority of the members of the Assembly.
(2) In an extraordinary session, the Assembly may not consider
matters other than those for which it has been convened except
with the consent of the Cabinet.
Article 89 [Prorogation of Sessions]
The Amir announces the prorogation of ordinary and
extraordinary sessions.
Article 90 [Place of Meeting]
Every meeting held by the Assembly at a time or place other
than that assigned for its meeting is invalid, and resolutions
passed thereat are void by virtue of law.
Article 91 [Oath of Members]
Before assuming his duties in the Assembly or in its
committees, a member of the National Assembly must take the
following oath before the Assembly in a public sitting:
"I swear by Almighty God to be faithful to the Country and to
the Amir, to respect the Constitution and the laws of the State,
to defend the liberties, interests, and properties of the poople,
and to discharge my duties honestly and truthfully."
Article 92 [President of Assembly]
(1) The National Assembly elects at its first sitting and for the
duration of its term a President and a Deputy President from
amongst its members. If either office becomes vacant, the
Assembly elects a successor for the remainder of its term.
(2) In all cases, election is by an absolute majority vote of the
members present. If this majority vote is not attained in the
first ballot, another election is held between the two candidates
receiving the highest number of votes. If more than one
candidate receives an equal number of votes in the second
place, all such candidates shall participate in the second ballot.
In this case, the cendidate who receives the greatest number of
votes is elected. If there is a tie in this last ballot, the choice is
by lot.
(3) The oldest member presides over the first sitting until the
President is elected.
Article 93 [Committees]
The Assembly forms, within the first week of its annual
session, the committees necessary for its functions. These
committees may discharge their duties during the recess of the
Assembly with a view to submitting their recommendations to it
when it meets.
Article 94 [Publicity]
Sittings of the National Assembly are public, though they may
be held in secret upon the request of the Government, the
President of the Assembly, or of ten of its members. The
debate on such request is held in secret.
Article 95 [Validation of Election]
The National Assembly decides upon the validity of the election
of its members. No election may be declared invalid except by
a majority vote of the members constituting the Assembly.
This jurisdiction may, by law, be entrusted to a judicial body.
Article 96 [Resignation of Members]
The National Assembly is the competent authority to accept
resignation of its members.
Article 97 [Quorum, Majority]
For a meeting of the National Assembly to be valid, more than
half of its members must be present. Resolutions are passed by
an ahsolute majority vote of the members present, except in
cases where a special majority is required. When votes are
equally divided, the motion is rejected.
Article 98 [Government Program]
Immediately upon its formation, every Cabinet presents its
program to the National Assembly. The Assembly may make
comments with regard to such a program.
Article 99 [Questioning Government]
Every member of the National Assembly may put to the Prime
Minister and to Ministers questions with a view to clarifying
matters falling within their competence. The questioner alone
has the right to comment once upon the answer.
Article 100 [Interpellations]
(1) Every member of the National Assembly may address to the
Prime Minister and to Ministers interpellations with regard to
matters falling within their competence.
(2) The debate on such an interpellation shall not take place
until at least eight days have elapsed after its presentation,
except in case of urgency and with the consent of the Minister
concerned.
(3) Subject to the provisions of Articles 101 and 102,
an interpellation may lead to the question of no-confidence
being put to the Assembly.
Article 101 [Vote of No-Confidence]
(1) Every Minister is responsible to the National Assembly for
the affairs of his ministry. If the Assembly passes a vote of
no-confidence against a Minister, he is considered to have
resigned his office as from the date of the vote of no-confidence
and shall immediately submit his formal resignation. The
question of confidence in a Minister may not be raised except
upon his request or upon a demand signed by ten members,
following a debate on an interpellation addressed to him. The
Assembly may not make its decision upon such a request before
the lapse of seven days from the presentation thereof.
(2) Withdrawal of confidence from a Minister is by a majority
vote of the members constituting the Assembly excluding
Ministers. Ministers do not participate in the vote of
confidence.
Article 102 [No-Confidence in Prime Minister]
(1) The Prime Minister does not hold any portfolio; nor shall
the question of confidence in him be raised before the National
Assembly.
(2) Nevertheless, if the National Assembly decides, in the
manner specified in the preceding Article, that it cannot
co-operate with the Prime Minister, the matter is submitted to
the Head of State. In such a case, the Amir may either relieve
the Prime Minister of office and appoint a new Cabinet or
dissolve the National Assembly.
(3) In the event of dissolution, if the new Assembly decides by
the abovementioned majarity vote that it cannot co-operate with
the said Prime Minister, he shall be considered to have resigned
as from the date of the decision of the Assembly in this respect,
and a new Cabinet shall be formed.
Article 103 [Continuation of Government]
If, for any reason, the Prime Minister or a Minister vacates his
office, he shall continue to discharge the urgent business thereof
until his successor is appointed.
Article 104 [Amiri Speech]
(1) The Amir opens the annual session of the National Asxmbly
whereupon he delivers an Amiri Speech reviewing the situation
of the country and the important public matters which happened
during the preceding year, and outlining the projects and
reforms the Government plans to undertake during the coming
year.
(2) The Amir may depute the Prime Minister to open the
Assembly or to deliver the Amiri Speech.
Article 105 [Response to Amiri Speech]
The National Assembly chooses, from amongst its members, a
committee to draft the reply to the Amiri Speech which will
embody the comments and wishes of the Assembly. After the
said reply has been approved by the Assembly, it is submitted
to the Amir.
Article 106 [Adjournment]
The Amir may, by a decree, adjourn the meeting of the
National Assembly for a period not exceeding one month.
Adjournment may be repeated during the same session with the
consent of the Assembly and then only once. A period of
adjournment is not counted in computing the duration of the
session.
Article 107 [Dissolution]
(1) The Amir may dissolve the National Assembly by a decree
in which the reasons for dissolution is indicated. However,
dissolution of the Assembly may not be repeated for the same
reasons.
(2) In the event of dissolution, elections for the new Assembly
are held within a period not exceeding two months from the
date of dissolution.
(3) If the elections are not held within the said period, the
dissolved Assembly is restored to its full constitutional authority
and meets immediately as if the dissolution had not taken place.
The Assembly then continues to function until the new
Assembly is elected.
(4) A member of the Assembly represents the whole nation.
He safeguards the public interest and is not subject to any
authority in the discharge of his duties in the Assembly or in its
committees.
Article 109 [Member Bills]
(1) A member of the Assembly has the right to initiate bills.
(2) No bill initiated by a member and rejected by the National
Assembly may be re-introduced during the same session.
Article 110 [Indemnity]
A member of the National Assembly is free to express any
views or opinions in the Assembly or in its committees. Under
no circumstances can he be held liable in respect thereof.
Article 111 [Immunity]
Except in cases of flagrante delicto, no measures of inquiry,
search, arrest, detention, or any other penal measure may be
taken against a member while the Assembly is in session,
except with the authorisation of the Assembly. The Assembly
must be notified of any penal measrue that may be taken during
its session in acoordance with the foregoing provision. The
Assembly, at its first meeting, is always notified of any such
measure taken against any of its members while it was not
sitting. In all cases, if the Assembly does not give a decision
regarding a request for authorization within one month from the
date of its receipt, permission is deemed to have been given.
Article 112 [Assembly Discussions]
Upon a request signed by five members, any subject of general
interest may be put to the National Assembly for discussion
with a view to securing clarification of the Government's policy
and to exchanging views thereof. All other members also have
the right to participate in the discussion.
Article 113 [Assembly Requests]
The National Assembly may express to the Government wishes
regarding public matters. If the Government cannot comply
with these wishes, it shall state to the Assembly the reasons
therefore. The Assembly may comment once on the
Government's statement.
Article 114 [Committees of Inquiry]
The National Assembly at all times has the right to set up
committees of inquiry or to delegate one or more of its
members to investigate any matter within its competence.
Ministers and all Government officials must produce
testimonials, documents, and statements requested from them.
Article 115 [Petition Committee]
(1) The Assembly sets up, among its annual standing
committees, a special committee to deal with petitions and
complaints submitted to the Assembly by citizens. The
committee seeks explanation thereon from the competent
authorities and informs the person concerned of the result.
(2) A member of the National Assembly may not interfere with
the work of either the Judicial or the Executive Power.
Article 116 [Governmental Right to Speek]
The Prime Minister and Ministers are given the floor whenever
they ask for it. They may call for assistance upon any senior
officials or depute them to speak on their behalf. The
Assembly may ask for a Minister to be present whenever a
matter relating to his ministry is under discussion. The Cabinet
must be represented in the sittings of the Assembly by the
Prime Minister or by some Ministers.
Article 117 [Standing Orders, Duty to Presence]
The National Assembly determines its standing orders which
include the procedure of the Assembly and its committees and
the rules pertaining to discussion, voting, questions,
interpellation, and all other functions prescribed in the
Constitution. The standing orders prescribe the sanctions to be
imposed on any member who violates order or absents himself
from the meetings of the Assembly or the committees without a
legitimate excuse.
Article 118 [Order in the Assembly, No Presence of Forces]
(1) Maintaining order in the National Assembly is the
responsibility of its President. The Assembly has a special
guard under the authority of the President of the Assembly.
(2) No armed forces may enter the Assembly or be stationed
close to its gates unless so requested by the President.
Article 119 [Remuneration]
The remuneration of the President of the National Assembly,
the Deputy President, and the Members are fixed by law. In
the event of a modification of the said remuneration, such
modification may not take effect until the next legislative term.
Article 120 [Incompatibilities]
(1) Membership of the National Assembly is incompatible with
public office except in the cases where compatibility is
permitted in accordance with the Constitution. In such cases,
the right to the remuneration for membership and the right to
the salary of the public office may not be cumulated.
(2) The law specifies other cases of incompatibility.
Article 121 [Economic Incompatibility]
(1) During his mandate, a member of the National Assembly
may not be appointed on the board of directors of a company,
nor may he participate in concessions granted by the
Government or by public bodies.
(2) Further, during the said mandate, he may not buy or rent
any proporty of the State, nor let, sell, or barter any of his
property to the Government, except by public auction or tender,
or in compliance with the system of compulsory acquisition.
Article 122 [No Decorations]
During their mandate, members of the National Assembly with
the exception of those occupying a public office not
incompatible with the membership of the National Assembly,
may not be awarded decorations.
Article 123 [Council of Ministers]
The Council of Ministers
Article 124 [Remuneration of Government]
(1) A law determines the remuneration of the Prime Minister
and the Ministers.
(2) All other provisions regarding Ministers apply to the Prime
Minister unless otherwise stated.
Article 125 [Qualifications of Ministers]
A Minister has to satisfy the qualifications laid down in Article
82.
Article 126 [Oath of Ministers]
Before assuming office, the Prime Minister and Ministers,
before the Amir, take the Oath specified in Article 91.
Article 127 [Supervision by Prime Minister]
The Prime Minister presides over the meetings of the Council
of Ministers and supervises the co-ordination of work among
the various ministries.
Article 128 [Secrecy, Quorum, Majority, Co-operation, Submission]
(1) Deliberations of the Council of Ministers are secret.
Resolutions are passed only when the majority of its members
are present and with the approval of the majority of those
present. In case of an equal division of votes, that side prevails
on which the Prime Minister has voted.
(2) Unless they resign, the minority has to abide by the opinion
of the majority.
(3) Resolutions of the Council of Ministers are submitted to the
Amir for approval in cases where the issue of a decree is
required.
Article 129 [Government Follows Prime Minister]
The resignation of the Prime Minister or his removal from
office involve the resignation or removal of all other Ministers.
Article 130 [Ministries, Directives]
Every Minister supervises the affairs of his ministry and
exccutes therein the general policy of the Government. He also
formulates directives for the ministry and supervises their
execution.
Article 131 [Immunities of Ministers]
(1) While in office, a Minister may not hold any other public
office or practice, even indirectly, any profession, or undertake
any industrial, commercial, or financial business. Furthermore,
he may not participate in any concession granted by the
Government or by public bodies or cumulate the ministerial
post with membership of the board of directors of any
company.
(2) In addition, during the said period, a Minister may not buy
or otherwise acquire any property of the State even by public
auction, nor may he let, sell, or switch any of his property to
the Government.
Article 132 [Ministerial Offences and Indictment]
A special law defines the offences which may be committed by
Ministers in the performance of their duties, and specifies the
procedure for their indictment and trial and the competent
authority for the said trial, without affecting the application of
other laws to their ordinary acts or offences and to the civil
liability arising therefrom.
Article 133 [Self-Government]
The law regulates general and municipal self-governing bodies
in such a way as to ensure their independence under the
direction and supervision of the Government.
Article 134 [Establishing Taxes]
No general tax may be established, amended, or abolished
except by a law. No one may be exempted, wholly or
partially, from the duty to pay such taxes except in the cases
specified by law. No one may be required to pay any other
tax, fee, or imposition except within the limits of law.
Article 135 [Funds]
The law prescribes rules for the collection of public funds and
the procedure for their expenditure.
Article 136 [Public Loans]
Public loans are concluded by a law. The Governmemt may
grant or guarantee a loan by a law, or within the limits of the
funds appropriated for the said purpose in the budget.
Article 137 [Loans of Self-Governing Bodies]
General and local self-governing bodies may grant or guarantee
loans according to law.
Article 138 [State Properties]
The law lays down the rules for the protection of State
properties, their administration, the conditions of their disposal,
and the limits within which any of these properties may be
relinquished.
Article 139 [Financial Year]
The financial year is fixed by law.
Article 140 [Annual Budget]
The Government draws up the annual budget, comprising the
revenue and expenditure of the State, and submits it to the
National Assembly for examination and approval at least two
months hefore the end of each current financial year.
Article 141 [Budget Discussion, Purpose]
(1) The budget shall be discussed in the National Assembly part
by part.
(2) None of the public revenues may be allocated for a specific
purpose except by law.
Article 142 [Specific Funds]
Specific funds may be appropriated by law for more than one
year if the nature of the expenditure so requires, provided that
each budget shall include the funds allocated for that year, or
alternatively, an extraordinary budget covering more than one
financial year shall be drawn up.
Article 143 [No Tax Inclusion]
The budget law may not include any provisions establishing a
new tax, increasing an existing tax, amending an existing law,
or evading the issue of a special law on a matter in respect of
which the Constitution provides that a law should be issued.
Article 144 [Budget by Law]
The budget shall be issued by a law.
Article 145 [Continuing Budget]
(1) If the budget law has not been promulgated before the
beginning of the financial year, the preceding budget applies
until the new one is issued and revenues are collected and
disbursements made in accordance with laws in force at the end
of the preceding year.
(2) However, if the National Assembly has approved one or
more parts of the new budget, they are put into effect.
Article 146 [Changes of Budget]
Any expenditure not included in the budget, or in excess of the
budget appropriations, as well as the transfer of any fund from
one part of the budget to another, must be effected by law.
Article 147 [Maximum Expenditure]
In no case may the maximum estimate of expenditure, included
in the budget law or the laws amending it, be exceeded.
Article 148 [General Budgets]
The general budgets, both independent and annexed, must be
specified by law to which the provisions regarding the budget of
the State apply.
Article 149 [Final Accounts]
The final accounts of the financial administration of the State
for the preceding year are submitted, within four months
following the end of the said year, to the National Assembly for
consideration and approval.
Article 150 [Statement of Government]
The government submits to the National Assembly, at least
once during each ordinary session, a statement upon the
financial position of the State.
Article 151 [Audit Commission]
A financial control and audit commission is established by a
law, which ensures its independence. The commission is
attached to the National Assembly and assists the government
and the National Assembly in controlling the collection of the
State revenues and the disbursement of its expenditures within
the limits of the budget. The commission submits to both the
Government and the National Assembly an annual report on its
activities and its observations.
Article 152 [Natural Resources]
No concession for exploitation of either a natural resource or a
public service may be granted except by a law and for a limited
period. In this respect, the preparatory measures facilitate the
operations of prospecting and explorating and ensure publicity
and competition.
Article 153 [Monopoly]
No monopoly may be granted except by a law and for a limited
period.
Article 154 [Currency, Banking, Standards]
Currency and banking as well as standards, weights, and
measures are regulated by law.
Article 155 [Pensions]
Law regulates salaries, pensions, compensation, subsidies, and
gratuities which are a charge on the State treasury.
Article 156 [Local Budgets]
Provisions relating to the budgets and the final accounts of local
bodies and authorities which have a public legal personality are
determined by law.
Article 157 [Peace, State Integrity]
Peace is the aim of the State, and the safeguard of the integrity
of the Country, which is part of the integrity of the Greater
Arab World, is a trust devolving upon every citizen.
Article 158 [Military Service]
Military service is regolated by law.
Article 159 [Establishment of Armed Forces]
The State alone may establish armed forces and public security
bodies and that in accordance with law.
Article 160 [Mobilization]
Mobilization, general or partial, are regulated by law.
Article 161 [Supreme Defence Council]
A Supreme Defence Council is set up to conduct affairs relating
to defence, to the safeguard of the integrity of the Country, and
to the supervision of the armed forces, in accordance with law.
Article 162 [Impartiality of Judges]
The honor of the Judiciary
Article 163 [Independence of Judiciary]
In administering justice, judges are not subject to any
authority
Article 164 [Court System, Military Courts]
Law regulates the Courts of various kinds and degrees and
specifies their functions and jurisdiction. Except when Martial
Law is in force, Military Courts have jurisdiction only over
military offences committed by members of the armed and
security forces within the limits specified by law.
Article 165 [Publicity of Trials]
Sittings of the Courts are to be public, except for the cases
prescribed otherwise by law.
Article 166 [Recourse to the Courts]
The right of recourse to the Courts is guaranteed to all people.
Law prescribes the procedure and manner necessary for the
exercise of this right.
Article 167 [Public Prosecution]
(1) The Public Prosecution Office conducts penal charges on
behalf of society. It supervises the affairs of judicial police, the
enforcement of penal laws, the pursuit of offenders, and the
execution of judgments. Law regulates this body, lays down its
duties, and defines the conditions and guarantees for those who
assume its functions.
(2) As an exception, law may entrust to the public security
authorities the conduct of prosecutions in misdemeanours in
accordance with the manner prescribed by law.
Article 168 [Supreme Council of Judiciary]
The Judiciary has a Supreme Council which is regulated, and
its duties defined, by law.
Article 169 [Administrative Jurisdiction]
The law regulates the settlement of administrative suits by
means of a special Chamber or Court, and prescribes its
organization and the manner of assuming administrative
jurisdiction including the power of both nullification and
compensation in respect of administrative acts contrary to law.
Article 170 [Legal Departments]
The law organizes the body which renders legal advice to
ministries and public departments and drafts bills and
regulations. Law also regulates the representation of the State
and other public bodies before the Courts.
Article 171 [Council of State]
A Council of State may be established by a law to assume the
functions of administrative jurisdiction, rendering legal advice,
and drafting bills and regulations, mentioned in the preceding
two Articles.
Article 172 [Conflicts of Jurisdiction]
The method of resolving conflicts of jurisdiction or of
judgments between the various kinds of Courts are prescribed
by law.
Article 173 [Constitutional Review]
(1) The law specifies the judicial body competent to deciding
dispiutes relating to the constitutionality of laws and regulations
and determines its jurisdiction and procedure.
(2) The law ensures the right of both the Government and the
interested parties to challenge the constitutionality of laws and
regulations before the said body.
(3) If the said body decides that a law or a regulation is
unconstitutional, it is considered null and void.
Article 174 [Amendments of the Constitution]
(1) The Amir or one-third of the members of the National
Assembly have the right to propose a revision of the
Constitution by amending
(2) If the Amir and the majority of the members constituting the
National Assembly approve the principle of revision and its
subject matter, the Assembly debates the bill article by article.
Approval by a two-thirds majority vote of the members
constituting the Assembly is required for the bill to be passed.
The revision comes into force only after being sanctioned and
promulgated by the Amir regardless of the provisions of
Articles 65 and 66.
(3) If the principle of revision or its subiect matter is rejected, it
may not be presented again before the lapse of one year from
the rejection.
(4) No amendment to this Constitution may be proposed before
the lapse of five years from its coming into force.
Article 175 [Limits to Constitutional Amendments]
The provisions relating to the Amiri System in Kuwait and the
principles of liberty and equality, provided for in this
Constitution, may not be proposed for revision except in
relation to the title of the Amirate or to increase the guarantees
of liberty and equality.
Article 176 [Powers of the Amir]
The powers of the Amir, specified in this Constitution, may not
be proposed for revision when a Deputy Amir is acting for him.
Article 177 [Continuation of Treaties]
The application of this Constitution does not affect treaties and
conventions previously concluded by Kuwait with other States
and international organizations.
Article 178 [Publication of Laws]
Laws are published in the Official Gazette within two weeks of
their promulgation and come into force one month after their
publication. The latter period may be extended or reduced for
any law by a special provision included in it.
Article 179 [Retroactive Laws]
The laws are applicable to that which takes place after the date
of their coming into force, and thus have no effect in respect of
what has taken place before such date. However, in other than
penal matters, a law may, with the approval of a majority vote
of the members constituting the National Assembly, prescribe
otherwise.
Article 180 [Continuation of Laws]
All provisions of laws, regulations, decrees, orders, and
decisions, in effect upon the coming into force of this
Constitution, continue to be applicable unless amended or
repealed in accordance with the procedure preseribed in this
Constitution, provided that they are not contrary to any of its
provisions.
Article 181 [No Suspension of Constitution]
No provision of this Constitution may be suspended except
when Martial Law is in force and within the limits specified by
the law. Under no circumstances may the meetings of the
National Assembly be suspended, nor shall the immunities of its
members be interfered with during such period.
Article 182 [Publication, Enforcement]
This Constitution shall be published in the Official Gazette and
comes into force on the date of the meeting of the National
Assembly which shall not be later than January 1963.
Article 183 [Continuing Assembly]
Law Number I of 1962 concerning the system of Government
during the period of transition continues to be in force, and the
present members of the Constituent Assembly continue in the
exercis of their duties specified in the said law, until the
meeting of the National Assembly.